By Frank Kamuntu
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga has praised the Government of Uganda and the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) for launching free public Wi-Fi in Bwera Town, hailing the initiative as a powerful step toward empowering Ugandans at the grassroots with digital tools that can transform lives.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Prof. Muganga lauded the move as “visionary,” expressing gratitude to both NITA-U and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for their role in extending internet access to underserved communities.
“This is a significant milestone for our nation,” Prof. Muganga posted. “Expanding access to the internet is not only a catalyst for a thriving digital economy but also paves the way for meaningful education and opportunities for all Ugandans.”
A Longtime Advocate Of Digital Equity
Prof. Muganga has consistently championed the role of digital connectivity in unlocking human potential across Uganda and Africa. Under his leadership, Victoria University has implemented advanced digital learning platforms, promoted data-driven education, and emphasized the need to integrate emerging technologies into both public policy and academic curricula.
He has been vocal in advocating for policies that democratize access to internet and digital infrastructure, arguing that bridging the digital divide is not just a technological challenge, but a human rights issue. “In today’s world, access to the internet is as vital as access to water or electricity,” he has said in previous interviews.
The Next Frontier: Artificial Intelligence
While applauding the free public Wi-Fi rollout, Prof. Muganga is also urging Uganda and Africa at large to take the next leap: integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into national development strategies.
“Internet access is the first step,” Muganga noted. “But to truly compete in the 21st-century global economy, we must embrace Artificial Intelligence—not as a luxury, but as a necessity for socio-economic transformation.”
He has repeatedly warned that Africa risks being left behind if governments and institutions fail to invest in AI-driven solutions across education, agriculture, healthcare, governance, and financial services. His recent keynote addresses have emphasized how AI can help streamline public service delivery, improve resource allocation, and create new job opportunities through automation and innovation.
Leading By Example
At Victoria University, Prof. Muganga has positioned the institution as a pioneer in integrating AI and emerging technologies into academic programs. The university recently launched a Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Science aimed at equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
“We must prepare our youth not just to use technology, but to shape it,” he said at the launch. “Africa must move from being a consumer of technology to becoming a creator.”
As Uganda implements its Uganda Digital Acceleration Project (UDAP–GovNet) and scales up initiatives like the Bwera Town public Wi-Fi, Prof. Muganga is calling for a bold, coordinated national strategy that places AI at the center of development planning.
“Let us not stop at connectivity,” he said. “Let us build on it—by investing in education, research, and policy frameworks that support innovation, especially through AI. That is how we will leapfrog into the future.”
With digital equity now taking shape through projects like NITA-U’s public Wi-Fi expansion, and voices like Prof. Muganga’s championing the cause, Uganda stands at the threshold of a new digital renaissance—one that promises inclusive growth, transformative education, and empowered citizens.
WhatsApp/Call: +256 754 137391
